May 26, 2010

Summer Reading Programs

Read books to win books... sounds like my kind of summer fun! Stores and libraries start up their summer reading programs next month. With idle summer days (and bored restless children) stretching out in front of me, I'm not wasting a moment before signing up.

Barnes & Noble
Running May 25 through September 6, B&N's Passport to Summer Reading is open to kids grades 1-6. Your child simply needs to read 8 books, write about his/her favorite part, and bring a completed tear page to any participating Barnes & Noble store. They then get to choose a paperback of their choice from a list! I wish E was old enough to participate - 8 books? We'd be finished in a day!

Borders
Borders' Double Dog Dare program is open to all kids 12 and under (yay!). They require your child to read 10 books. Just fill out the form listing the books and bring it to a Borders store or Walden Books to receive a free book.

Lifeway Christian Stores
Lifeway's program isn't nearly as good of a deal, but if you shop there often this might be useful. Sign up for their Summer Reading Race and receive a punch card good for 15% off kid's books from June 5 through July 31. After you have bought and and your child reports as reading 5 books, you can bring in your completed punch card for a kid's surprise. The program kicks off with crafts, snacks, and storytimes on June 5 from 11am -1pm at participating stores.

Scholastic Summer Reading Challenge
No free books here, but some excellent book lists to help keep your readers engaged, as well as an online area older children can log their reads and win virtual rewards.

And of course, your community library is sure to have a summer reading program, so visit their website or drop by your local branch for more information.